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The Second Week of Session

I met with Courtney Carroll, a Las Vegas mass shooting survivor, on Friday. We discussed our mutual support for my bill HB819, which bans bump stocks in Virginia.

(This post originally appeared as an online edition of our newsletter on January 19th, 2018.)

Dear Friends,

It's the second week of session!

This year, I have filed legislation focused on equity and public safety ranging from decriminalizing suicide to sensible gun safety. More information on my bills is available on the LIS website, here. Committees started meeting this week, and my first bill scheduled for debate would decriminalize suicide (HB42). The advocates, who came to the Capitol to support HB42, and Virginia Public Safety Secretary Brian Moran met with me before I presented the bill.

On Friday, I met with Courtney Carroll, a Las Vegas mass shooting survivor. We discussed our mutual support for my bill HB819, which bans bump stocks in Virginia.

FROM THE GOVERNOR:

Governor Northam delivered his 1st State of the Commonwealth Address Monday evening describing ways to improve upon our success from strengthening our workforce development system to increasing access to early education. You can view the text here.

I chair three caucuses that meet during the Regular Legislative Session to track and champion progressive legislative priorities in the General Assembly: the Animal Welfare Caucus, the New American's Caucus, and the Joint Women's Health Care Caucus. Through my leadership and the support of my excellent colleagues, we hope to pass strong, effective legislation passed to be signed by Governor Northam. These caucuses support the welfare of our beloved companion animals, protect the rights of New Americans, and allow women the autonomy and access they deserve in receiving healthcare. Below is a photo from a recent Animal Welfare Caucus meeting with Senior Vice President Humane Society of the United States Holly Hazard.

FROM VDOT:

You may recall that I requested VDOT to study intersection of Columbia Pike & Aqua Terrace brought to me by concerned constituents. VDOT has reported to me that they have completed replacing the backplates on the signals at this intersection with reflective backplates that are proven to be a safety upgrade as they are easier to see. VDOT corresponded with local police on this area to be certain the police can control any speeding issues which may be contributing to the problem.

COMING UP:

Town Hall with Del. Kory and Sen. Marsden

I will be hosting a town hall meeting with Senator David Marsden on Saturday, January 20th 10:30am - 12pm at Parklawn Elementary School cafeteria (behind Barcroft Plaza), 4116 Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA 22312. Join us to learn about proposed legislation, session progress, and offer your feedback!

Community Hours

On Saturday, January 27th, and Saturday, February 10th from 10:30am - 12pm, I will hold Community Hours, a time for constituents to drop in to discuss issues pertinent to the 2018 legislative agenda. I will be in the Thomas Jefferson Public Library Conference Room, 7415 Arlington Boulevard, Falls Church, VA 22042.

Annual "Special Art by Special Artists" Art Show

Wednesday, February 21st, from 9:00am - 12pm, I will be hosting the General Assembly's annual Special Art by Special Artists Art Show opening reception. This Art Show will be held in a new location this year:Themain lobby of the SunTrust Building located at919 East Main Street, Richmond, VA 23219, across the street from the Pocahontas Building. The artwork will remain in the SunTrust Art Gallery until the end of February.

I am honored to represent you in the 2018 General Assembly session. Thank you for your trust.